Sporty Volkswagen Beetle GSR Debuts at Chicago Auto Show

The newest generation of the Volkswagen Beetle hearkens back to the classic Beetle shape of the 1960s and 70s, and last week at the Chicago Auto Show, Volkswagen introduced yet another throwback. Decades after the original Beetle GSR debuted, the automaker is bringing it back and again, making it the sportiest option in the Beetle lineup. Available this fall as a 2014 model, only 3,500 units of the Volkswagen Beetle GSR will be produced, with more than half finding their way to the United States.

While the Beetle GSR of the 1970s was considered a sporty compact with just 50 horsepower, today’s version boosts output to 210 horsepower, allowing for a sprint from zero to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. The classic yellow-and-black paint job of the original GSR was reinterpreted in a modern design for the current generation, with a yellow body complemented by a black hood, trunk lid, roof and mirror caps. Inside, that color theme continues with black-trimmed leather seats featuring yellow stitching, while a special badge on the steering wheel is marked with the special-edition number.

“The latest generation of the Beetle is undeniably athletic, and the new GSR offers the added power to match its revved-up style,” said Michael Coleman, general manager of Russel Volkswagen, a VW dealer in Baltimore, Md. “The striking looks and engaging performance of the 2014 Beetle GSR should make it just as much of a collector’s item as the original from 40 years ago.”

The GSR wasn’t the only sporty new Beetle showcased in Chicago, as the 2014 Beetle Convertible R-Line made its debut at the auto show. Featuring unique 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, lower-profile tires and the sport-tuned suspension found on the Beetle Turbo, the new R-Line trim will provide a more dynamic driving experience when it goes on sale later this year. Inside, a flat-bottom R-Line leather-wrapped steering wheel and aluminum sport pedals carry on the performance-oriented feel, while leather seating surfaces deliver a touch of luxury.

The new Beetle models were unveiled just days after Volkswagen aired a humorous commercial featuring the iconic vehicle during the big game in New Orleans. Set to a performance of “C’mon Get Happy” by reggae artist Jimmy Cliff, the spot focuses on a Minnesotan office worker named Dave whose happy-go-lucky philosophy manifests itself through a peculiar Jamaican accent. By the end of the commercial, Dave’s coworkers discover that the source of his laid-back outlook is his red 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, and after taking a ride, even his boss finds the sunny side of life.

“Whether you’re behind the wheel of the classic Beetle or a new performance trim, there’s a good chance you’re going to have a smile on your face like Dave,” added Coleman. “The incredible popularity of Volkswagen’s new commercial shows that there are a lot of Americans who are ready to embrace the exuberance that comes with owning a Beetle, and we expect to see more customers in our showroom as a result.”

About Russel Volkswagen:

Committed to building lasting relationships with Volkswagen customers in the Baltimore area one family at a time, Russel Volkswagen backs up its wide inventory of new and used VW vehicles with a no-hassle buying environment. Their team of factory-trained technicians, parts experts and knowledgeable sales professionals goes the distance to ensure every customer experience is a positive one. Visit their Baltimore, Maryland Volkswagen dealership at 6624 Baltimore National Pike for a test drive, or browse their inventory online at www.russelvw.com. They can also be reached by phone at 866-540-5268 and found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RusselVW.